Madison, NC – A 6-year-old child is expected to recover after Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office deputies rescued the juvenile from the Dan River on Sunday afternoon.
According to the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded on Sunday, July 19, 2026, to the area of 180 M&M Lane in Madison after receiving a report of a juvenile in distress while floating on the river.
Deputies Z. Warner and J. McCollum were the first to arrive and navigated difficult terrain to reach the child and others in the group. The sheriff’s office said the deputies used specialized throw ropes carried in patrol vehicles to access a steep embankment near the water’s edge.
Once they reached the scene, the deputies secured the ropes to nearby trees to help everyone safely exit the area. Officials said the 6-year-old was breathing and had a pulse but was unconscious when deputies reached the child.
The juvenile was quickly evacuated on foot to a waiting ambulance for medical treatment. According to the sheriff’s office, the child is expected to make a full recovery.
The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office praised the quick actions and professionalism of Deputies Warner and McCollum, whose response helped bring the incident to a positive outcome.
The agency also thanked Rockingham County 911 Communications, Rockingham County Emergency Services, Madison Police Department, Madison Rescue, Reidsville Rescue, Eden Rescue, Huntsville Fire Department Station 150, Madison Fire Department Station 50, North West Fire Department Station 130, and Bethany Fire Department Station 40 for assisting or standing by during the response.
Officials reminded the public to wear properly fitted life jackets, maintain communication while on the water, and understand water conditions before participating in recreational activities, especially when children are present.
